Dealing with gastrointestinal issues
Most people don’t look forward to seeing the doctor at the best of times. When it comes to issues of a gastrointestinal nature, they probably look forward to it even less. Many people are embarrassed discussing their problems or uncomfortable with the thought of being examined. This can be especially difficult for women.
With so few female gastroenterologists in practice, many women who would prefer to be seen by a female doctor are unable to do so.
I saw many women during my residency and fellowship training that fell into this category, which is why I chose to specialize in pelvic floor dysfunction and anorectal disorders. These can present as incontinence, pain, chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids or other gastrointestinal problems. Although these issues are seen in both sexes, they tend to affect women in greater numbers, often due to pregnancy and childbirth.
The good news is that we have a lot of fantastic diagnostic tools and treatments at our disposal today to help patients suffering from these types of conditions. One of the latest is a safe, noninvasive procedure called anorectal manometry.
What Is Anorectal Manometry?
It is a catheter-based test used to assess the function of the rectal and anal muscles, which are the muscles responsible for passing stool. This procedure evaluates patients with abnormal bowel movements, such as difficulty passing stool, constipation, diarrhea or fecal incontinence. It is also helpful in diagnosing conditions in patients experiencing rectal or anal pain and in assessing muscle function pre-surgery and post-surgery. Anorectal manometry measures muscle function and pressure to determine muscle strength and how well specific muscles coordinate with other muscles.
How The Test Works
Anorectal manometry is a simple test that does not require sedation and takes no more than 30 minutes. A thin catheter with a balloon attached is inserted into the rectum during the procedure. This is connected to a device that inflates and deflates the balloon and records the data. During the test, you may be asked to squeeze, push and relax your muscles. You may also be asked about the sensations you feel.
The bowels must be empty for the procedure, requiring an enema before your appointment. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to prepare for the test. No post procedure recovery is required, and you can return to your daily activities immediately.
An anorectal manometry test results can help identify the cause of rectal or anal issues and determine appropriate treatment. Depending on what the test reveals, treatment can include lifestyle and dietary changes, physiotherapy to strengthen pelvic floor or anal sphincter muscles, medication or sometimes surgery.
To all residents of the Ark-La-Tex (women and men): You don’t have to suffer gastrointestinal discomfort in silence. Help is available.
Dr. Abby Linzay is a board-certified gastroenterologist at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C., the largest independent gastroenterology group in Northwest Louisiana. To schedule an appointment, visit www.gis.md or call (318) 631-9121.
